How to Sharpen a Cheese Shaver for Clean Slices

By Microplane | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to sharpen and maintain your Microplane Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver for clean, effortless slices. Follow our step-by-step guide to keep your shaver in top condition.

Quick Answer

To keep your Microplane Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver producing clean slices, maintain the blade with gentle cleaning, proper storage, and occasional honing rather than aggressive sharpening.

Why Sharpening Isn't Always the Answer

The blade on a Microplane Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver is made from surgical-grade stainless steel, designed to stay sharp for a long time with proper care. Aggressive sharpening with metal files or coarse stones can actually damage the edge and reduce its precision.

Instead of focusing on sharpening, prioritize cleaning and storage habits that protect the blade's edge. If you notice dullness, a gentle honing rod or a fine-grit whetstone used sparingly can help, but always follow the blade's angle and avoid excessive pressure.

Common Mistakes That Dull Your Shaver

Many home cooks inadvertently dull their cheese shaver by washing it in the dishwasher, which exposes the blade to harsh detergents and high heat. Another mistake is storing the shaver loosely in a drawer where it can knock against other utensils.

Using the shaver on hard, frozen foods or pressing too firmly can also stress the blade. Stick to soft-to-medium cheeses and let the blade do the work for best results.

Step-by-Step Sharpening and Care

Clean Thoroughly: Wash the shaver by hand with warm soapy water immediately after use. Use a soft sponge or brush to remove cheese residue, and dry completely with a towel. Avoid the dishwasher, as harsh cycles can dull the blade. Always dry the blade completely to prevent moisture damage.
Hone the Edge: If the blade feels less sharp, use a fine-grit honing rod or whetstone. Hold the shaver at the same angle as the original bevel (usually around 20 degrees) and glide it gently along the stone a few times. Do not apply heavy pressure or use coarse stones. Honing is for maintenance, not reshaping; over-honing can wear the blade.
Store Safely: Store the cheese shaver in a protective cover or a dedicated drawer slot with the blade facing away from other utensils. This prevents nicks and keeps the edge aligned. A protective cover also keeps the blade safe from accidental contact.
Test and Adjust: After honing, test the shaver on a soft cheese like mozzarella. If slices are still ragged, repeat the honing process once more. If the blade remains dull, consider replacing the shaver, as repeated sharpening may not restore a worn edge. If honing doesn't help, it's time for a new shaver.

Product Spotlight

Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver: The Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver features a surgical-grade stainless steel blade designed for precision slicing. This high-quality blade retains its edge longer when maintained properly, so gentle care and honing are more effective than aggressive sharpening.
Gourmet Series Cheese Shaver